Meaning: The quote you've provided is from a poem titled "Soldier" by the Australian-born poet Peter Porter. The poem is part of his collection "The Cost of Seriousness," published in 1978. Porter is known for his thought-provoking and often enigmatic poetry that explores themes of history, war, and human nature.

In the context of the quote, it appears that the speaker is reflecting on the ambiguity surrounding the source of the money involved in a certain transaction or endeavor. The phrase "supposedly to put up the money and did put it up" suggests that there was an expectation for certain individuals to provide funds, and indeed, the money was contributed. However, the speaker expresses uncertainty about whether the money came from those individuals as intended, or if it was actually the speaker's own funds that were used. The statement "is something which I shall never know" underscores the speaker's resignation to the fact that the truth of the matter will remain elusive.

The quote is characteristic of Porter's poetic style, which often delves into complex and ambiguous situations, inviting readers to contemplate the uncertainties and paradoxes of life. In this case, the ambiguity surrounding the source of the money serves as a metaphor for the broader theme of uncertainty and the limitations of human knowledge.

Porter's poetry often engages with historical and political themes, and "Soldier" is no exception. The title itself evokes ideas of conflict, duty, and sacrifice, and these themes are likely to be woven throughout the poem. It's worth noting that Porter's approach to such weighty subjects is often infused with irony, wit, and a keen sense of introspection.

The poem "Soldier" is likely to offer a multi-layered exploration of the complexities of war and human nature, and the quote you've provided can be seen as a microcosm of the larger themes at play in the poem. The uncertainty surrounding the source of the money reflects the broader uncertainties and ambiguities that characterize human endeavors, particularly those related to conflict and power dynamics.

Porter's poetry is known for its intellectual depth and rich literary allusions. It often rewards careful and attentive reading, inviting readers to unravel its multiple layers of meaning. "Soldier" is likely to be no exception, and the quote you've provided serves as a tantalizing glimpse into the enigmatic world of Porter's poetry.

In conclusion, the quote from Peter Porter's "Soldier" encapsulates the poet's penchant for exploring ambiguity, uncertainty, and the complexities of human experience. It offers a window into the thematic richness of Porter's poetry and invites readers to engage with its thought-provoking layers of meaning.